Eastside Arts Society (EAS) is a charitable organization whose mission is to empower and sustain artists while also connecting the public to visual arts. On November 17-20 you can join EAS for their “Eastside Culture Crawl” where Vancouver’s Eastside artists open their studios to the public. We spoke with Artists and Executive Director of EAS, Esther Rausenberg, to learn more about them.
Describe your charity/non-profit in a few sentences.
Eastside Arts Society (EAS) programs the annual Eastside Culture Crawl Visual Art, Craft & Design Festival, CREATE! Arts Festival and is developing the Eastside Arts District.
What problem does it aim to solve?
EAS is committed to promoting and advancing the visual and performing arts; and ensuring that the arts are accessible to the public.
When did you start/join it?
26 years ago as a founder and 10 years ago as the Artistic and Executive Director.
What made you want to get involved?
I am an artist passionate about the impact the arts have on our community and engaging and connecting artists with the public.
What was the situation like when you started?
We were a small volunteer artist-run organization.
How has it changed since?
In ten years, the organization has grown to include a dedicated team of 4, started a new arts festival CREATE!, and is realizing the Eastside Arts District.
What more needs to be done?
Making the arts accessible and inviting will contribute to a healthier arts sector.
How can our readers help?
Readers can come out to the Eastside Culture Crawl Festival, volunteer and/or donate to our charity.
Do you have any events coming up?
The Eastside Culture Crawl takes place across Vancouver’s Eastside from Nov 17 – 20, 2022. Full details, including additional artist events, can be found on the website.
Where can we follow you?
PAY IT FORWARD: What is an awesome local charity/non-profit that you love?
United We Can was founded by a friend of mine. Daily it processes 60,000+ beverage containers year-round and supports a population of 600 to 700 recycling collectors in Vancouver’s inner-city community.
